REVIEW: Lantern – II: Morphosis (Album)

Lantern are a Black/Death Metal band with a strong blend of Thrash and subtle Melodic elements. Based in Kuopio, Finland, this quintet live up to their motto of “music from the beyond”. Sustaining the hellish bloodline of conventional Nordic Black Metal with their upcoming release, II: Morphosis. Which is due for release on the 17th March 2017 via Dark Descent Records.

Each member within Lantern remains somewhat anonymous and ambiguous, going under a moniker, reflecting their role and personality. With Cruciatus on Lead Guitar, Necrophilos on Vocals, J. Noisehunter on Bass, St. Belial on Rhythm Guitar, and last but not least, J. Poussu on Drums.

Though this release doesn’t do much to breakaway from the conventions of the genre, it still adhere’s to them strongly, still creating a well rounded sound and record that shows technicality with a great sense atmosphere.

Track no. 3, Hosting Yellow Fungi, definitely was a particular favourite. With thrash-y, head-bang provoking tremolo riffs and swift drum patterns that build fierce momentum. However most of the tracks are overshadowed by the brilliance displayed in the track Virgin Damnation. The drums build up perfectly with the bass, before the Vocals erupt into both ears. It may commence a little slower, but it doesn’t fall shy of the mark as it’s melodic edge and pace separates it as one of the Alpha tracks on the record overall.

I also feel the production by Dan Lowndes at Resonance Sound Studios is missing some of the chunkier, thicker tones in the guitars. Which will give it more depth, saturation, aggression and potency with it’s heaviness. It is layered perfectly. Each instrument sits in a balanced hierarchy, but it feels slightly flattened. This could have been a choice made by the band, but it is something worth considering in the future to add to the delivery and dynamic of the album.

In the end, considering everything as one well made package, it does definitely do the Black Metal name a great deal of justice. But it’s played a little too safe when following the conventions. This may cause issues with some listeners, but rewards us with it’s tactical usage of Thrash.

REVIEW: Lantern – II: Morphosis (Album)

Kyle Watson

February 25, 2017

6.5/10

Melodic, and full of Thrash fury. Lantern do the genre justice, but do need to seek further reflection in order to truly set themselves on the correct path to be a more unique name in Black/Death Metal.

6.5Overall Score

Lantern shine a light on the Black Metal Genre

Melodic, and full of Thrash fury. Lantern do the genre justice, but do need to seek further reflection in order to truly set themselves on the correct path to be a more unique name in Black/Death Metal.

Based in Coventry, born and raised, I am a Graphic Designer and Guitarist, expressing a deep love for music. As well as a passion for collecting CDs and Vinyl, supporting artists and live bands.
Ranging from Melodic Hardcore, Deathcore, Metalcore & Djent all the way to Pop Punk etc. there is a diverse range of music that I enjoy.